Manoah Tuiasosopo
Reporter Manoah Tuiasosopo gives us an inside look at what it takes to earn the title Weapons and Tactics Instructor.
YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) – The United States Marine Corps’ Weapons and Tactics Instructor course, also known as WTI, is one of the most challenging and prestigious training programs in the military.
It’s designed to bring out the finest in Marine aviation and exclusively takes place in Yuma.
The WTI course is not for the faint of heart and only the most capable Marines are selected.
They’re required to undergo over 150 hours of classroom education and 220 hours of flight training over the course of 7-9 weeks.
To better understand what it takes to earn this prestigious title, 20-plus community members got the chance of a lifetime and jumped on a helicopter and got a first-hand look at the training.
It was just a glimpse into the fast-paced, high-stakes environment Marines operate in on a daily basis.
Due to the Commanding Officer’s request, certain restrictions were placed on media and we weren’t able to interview any Marines, but we did speak with some fellow passengers.
That includes Army veteran Christopher Bilbrey who says he’s been on military aircraft before, but not like this.
“I spent of time flying in the Army with blackhawks and chinooks and I thought they leaked a lot. Oh god, the Marines have it,” Bilbrey shared.
As they boarded the helicopter it was clear that comfort was not a priority.
Hydraulic oil leaked from various parts of the aircraft, the space was cramped, and the noise of engines and propellers could drown out your thoughts.
But for the Marines, efficiency and mission success are far more important than comfort.
Devon McPherson, the President of Yuma County Fair Board, says, “I had no idea what the inside of the aircraft looked like and I agree, it was a little warm in there and I couldn’t imagine on a hot summer day or overseas deployed.”
Despite the noise, it was fascinating to see the communication between the Marine pilots and crew.
The coordination from the front to the back of the aircraft was seamless.
Their movements were quick and precise, as there’s no room for error if lives were on the line.
“I think it’s really amazing to get to see what our Marines do and to feel it hands on and see what they go through every day when they fly,” McPherson shared.
When they arrived at Kiwanis Park and Crane Middle School, Marines on the ground were already securing the area, ensuring the landing spot was clear of any disruptions.
The entire operation is a well-oiled machine that showcased the skill, coordination and precision needed for successful missions.
McPherson says, “So, at any given time that they’re needed to go overseas or in the case of an emergency, they’re prepared. They had a lot of great leaders on that aircraft and we were all honored to be there.”
Bilbrey adds, “It gives the civilians a real understanding of what these guys go through. These guys have a hard job. We should really give them more recognition for what they do.”
In the end, the WTI course is about becoming an exceptional Marine, capable of leading and training others in the most challenging environments.
It’s clear that those who graduate from this program are among the finest in the Corps.
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Courtesy: Arizona Western College
Courtesy: Arizona Western College
